The Portland Police Bureau (PPB) reported arrests related to ongoing protests outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in South Portland. Demonstrations have been taking place for over a week.
According to the Portland Police Bureau release, last evening, police monitored the area for unlawful activity. Eduardo Diaz, 22, was arrested for Unlawful Directing of Light from a Laser Pointer after officers saw him point a laser at federal officers around 8:24 p.m. He was later detained while leaving the area and was found wearing a ballistic vest and gas mask. He is being held on a U.S. Marshal’s hold.
At approximately 12:30 a.m., Mariana M. Rivera-Loza, 19, was arrested for Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree after entering a closed area near the trolley tracks of the ICE facility. Police stated that multiple warnings were given before the arrest. She was in possession of a shield at the time.
PPB confirmed no force was used by officers and no injuries were reported. They also stated that more charges may result from ongoing investigations.
Statements from Mayor Wilson and Chief Day regarding the ICE facility and police procedures can be found on the PPB’s official website.
